Statement by the Coordination Committee of Special Procedures on the loss of Asma Jahangir, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran

GENEVA (12 February 2018) - It is with profound sadness and shock that we have learned about the sudden loss of our colleague and friend, Ms. Asma Jahangir. She was a prominent member of the Special Procedures system, having served as special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, and special rapporteur on the freedom of religion or belief. Her last and current engagement was as special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Asma’s contribution to our system and the human rights cause as a whole has been a life-long endeavor. She has always demonstrated courage and determination with the ultimate goal of improving human rights around the world.

She will be remembered as an outstanding expert, as a courageous and tireless advocate for all human rights, and as an inspiring colleague. She was committed and passionate in her work, devoting her life to promoting democracy and to advancing women's rights in not only her own country, but around the world. It was an honour and also a privilege to have known such a great person. We will miss Asma dearly.